Citing the lack of wireless scale necessary to compete in the marketplace, the acceleration of competitive 4G networks as well as the inability to access iconic wireless devices (the iPhone), Cox Communications announced its intention to exit the 3G mobile business effective March 30, 2012. The cable operator has discontinued selling Cox Wireless, its wireless phone service, effective November 16, 2011.
All Cox Wireless customers have multiple Cox services, and will receive a $150 credit on their bill for every line of wireless phone service disconnected. Customers can keep their wireless devices and all early termination fees will be waived. Also, wireless customers will continue to receive their Bundle Benefit for two years.
“Cox is working to make this transition as seamless and easy as possible for our customers,�? said Len Barlik, executive vice president of product development and management. “We are proud of our employees’ dedication to delivering the excellent customer service that Cox is known for, and we will continue to keep our wireless customers’ satisfaction a top priority during this transition period.�?
Cox is third-largest U.S. cable TV company, serving more than 6 million residences and businesses.
http://www.cox.com
- In September 2011, Cox Communications completed its rollout of mobile services in southern California with the launch of “Unbelievably Fair�? mobile phone plans in San Diego and Santa Barbara, California. The service is distinguished by “MoneyBack Minutes” — where customers can get refunds at the end of the month billing cycle for minutes not used.
Cox Wireless launched in Orange County, California late last year. It is also available in Omaha, Neb., Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Okla., Rhode Island, Hampton Roads, Roanoke and Northern Virginia and Cox communities in Connecticut and Cleveland, Ohio.
- In 2010, Cox conducted 4G LTE trials in Phoenix and San Diego using AWS and 700 MHz spectrum that it acquired at Federal Communication Commission auctions in 2006 and 2008. Cox spent over $550 million for radio spectrum licenses to support its wireless plans, which include wireless broadband. Cox said that while it is testing 4G LTE technology in these markets, it is initially deploying wireless services using the 3G CDMA standard in Hampton Roads, Va., Orange County, California and Omaha, Nebraska. Collaborating with Cox in conducting the 4G trials and testing the wireless services and applications were Alcatel-Lucent and Huawei.